When I’m using any Google or Microsoft services, I can’t refrain myself from comparing the GUI of Google vs Microsoft. Why is Google better than Microsoft? It doesn’t mean that the GUI has to be simple and plain looking to be considered as user friendly, but it is how first time users feel and how easy and joyous it is when they use it. Minimalistic is not the key to the user friendly aspect, although it is what most users sought after upon looking for something.
No, I’m not a GUI engineer or designer to criticize, but I speak from end user language. I speak what my mind says. Probably my mind has been invaded by Google and whatever Google offers is the best and I might be a little bit bias when I write this. But Microsoft online service’s GUI is far from the quality or Brian Gardner’s WordPress theme (especially Revolution 1 theme). Ops, maybe I’m too much here, but let’s just say here, it is distant far behind. Surely something needs to be fixed here.
Consistent
If I compare the experience of using Google’s services VS Microsoft’s services, you’ll agree on how easy and comfortable the Google’s menu and site navigation is. Why? It has the consistency look and style regardless of the application. Left bar navigation, color and lines to separate the different segment is what Google shows on all its sites.
Take a look across all its blogs network, corporate pages and not to forget its flagship product, Google.com. All has the similar look right?? Everybody wants something that requires less learning curve. What does this mean? After users are comfortable with something, the mind can be easily influenced to use other things that have similar feeling or looks.
For instance, you used to be driving BMW. You like it. Now Merc produces another car comparable to it, with better specs and price competitively. At the same time BMW produces other cars which are more expensive but having similar dashboard, cockpit, meters and etc. What would you choose then? For sure you go for BMW right. You’re reluctant to learn how fun Merc is, or how to maintain it. It’s just nor your preference. (Forget brand loyal on this analogy)
Wind of changes?
Apparently, Microsoft is not a sleeping giant. When Windows Live was redesigned recently, it spotted the look that resembles ‘Google’s principal of design’. So compare it below.
Microsoft Live (New)
Skydrive
Hotmail
Windows Live (First release)
The new Windows Live obviously looks better now compared to it predecessor. The menu is neatly arranged with consistent look and style at the top of the screen and left side bar.
To switch between services is easier now with the implementation of permanent top menubar on all Windows Live services page. Ala Google 
And below is the sites that are self-explanatory. Do you notice which one stand out from another. Or what is similarities or differences between Google’s GUI design compared to Microsoft’s ?
Google Doc
Google Notebook
Google Reader
